Techno Tribe: Youth, Science, And The Power To Transform Tomorrow

Abstract

The techno-tribe phenomenon—a group of teenagers/students who form a collective identity through technological practices and digital culture—influences how the younger generation interacts with science, STEM aspirations, and collective social action. This article offers a theoretical and methodological study that combines the concepts of neo-tribalism (Maffesoli), science capital (Archer et al.), and literature on digital youth (Boyd, Prensky) to examine how techno-tribe communities on campus (case study: UIN Datokarama Palu) and the Palu City community can become agents of socio-scientific transformation. The proposed method is a comprehensive literature study coupled with quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews (mixed methods) to measure the dimensions of science capital, engagement in science practices, and patterns of techno-tribal identity formation. The main conclusion confirms that techno-tribes have the potential to increase scientific literacy and scientific aspirations if educational interventions and supporting ecosystems (access, project-based learning, mentorship) are provided strategically. Policy recommendations are directed at strengthening the science-cultural ecosystem on campus and in local communities.